Barbara Carnathan

1942 - 2025

Barbara Ann Dye Carnathan, age 83, passed away peacefully at Sanctuary Hospice House on Friday, August 29, 2025. She was born on January 1, 1942, to Robert Claude Dye and Maxine Bishop Dye. Though born in Ellistown, Barbara spent much of her early childhood in Wilson, Arkansas, before returning to Ellistown during her college years. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Education from Mississippi College, where she discovered her lifelong passion for teaching and shaping young minds.

Barbara devoted more than three decades to the classroom, beginning her teaching career in Natchez, where she taught for three years. She then joined the Tupelo Public School District, where she taught for 28 years at both Church Street and Pierce Street Elementary Schools. Her dedication and gentle spirit left a lasting impression on countless students and fellow educators alike.

On November 19, 1966, Barbara married the love of her life, James Alford Carnathan. Together, they shared a life filled with faith, family, and community. Barbara was a devoted member of Boguefala Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday school, was a member of the WMA and was an active part of the Golden Agers Group: a ministry she treasured deeply. She also served as a member of the Mooreville Lion's Club. She was well-known for her ministry of encouragement, faithfully sending cards for every life event.

In her quiet moments, Barbara loved to read and found her greatest joy in spending time with her grandchildren, who lovingly knew her as a constant source of kindness, wisdom, and comfort. Her legacy is one of unwavering faith, thoughtful service, and a deep love for her family and community.

She is survived by her husband, James Carnathan of Mooreville; daughter, Cheryl Tate and her husband, Jack, of Mooreville; grandchildren, Anna Claire Tate of Dallas, Texas, and Watson Tate and his wife, Adison, of Mooreville; brother, David Dye and wife, Donna, of Ellistown; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation will be 1p.m. until service time Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Pegues, Tupelo.

Service will be 3 p.m. Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Jefferson Street Chapel with Bro. David Perry officiating and Bro. Terry Benton speaking. Burial will follow at Boguefala Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Dave Dye, Mitch Carroll, Larry Treadaway, Mark Carnathan, Wade Bryan, and Alan Estes.

Memorials may be made to Boguefala Baptist Church building or cemetery fund, 690 Highway 371, Mooreville, MS 38857.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be made at www.PeguesFuneralHome.com.